Recently, in Monkton, Maryland, Martha visited the Lade Topiary Garden, which is located north of Baltimore and is recognized by the Horticultural Club of America. There are more than 100 life-size topiary forms that make this garden unique. The beauty and meticulous execution of this garden have transformed it into a prime tourist attraction.
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Lade Topiary Garden: A Historic Tradition

The Lade Topiary Garden was designed and created by topiary enthusiast Harvey S. Lade. The garden derives its inspiration from an 18th-century historic home that served as the repository of Lade’s collection of English antiques and equestrian art. The three-centuries-old home still embodies Lade’s life and work.
Martha wrote about this garden site in her blog, “When Harvey Lade bought his Maryland property, he decided that he would plan and design the gardens himself. I am sure he would be very proud of what he will see today.”
European Gardening-Inspired Designs
The Lade Topiary Garden has designs inspired by European gardening and is replete with finely crafted topiary forms. One of these special designs replicates a sculpture he saw while hunting in England and depicts a scene that includes hunting dogs. Lade added hunters to the scene, who are riding on horseback. A Chinese proverb appears on the step leading into the “Garden of Eden,” which is one of Lade’s favorite sayings: “If you want to be happy all your life, plant a garden.”
Martha’s Visit and Participation in the Festival
Martha also took part in the 17th Annual Garden Festival during her visit. This was a sale of specialty plants, garden décor and antique textiles, featuring more than 40 vendors from across the region. Martha saw garden fountains, urns, outdoor furniture, rare and interesting perennials and annuals like meadow sage and pitcher plants at the festival. She says that a portion of the proceeds from the event goes toward the upkeep and preservation of the garden site.
Recommendations of Lade Topiary Garden

Sharing her trip experience, Martha recommends visiting Lade Topiary Garden. She says if you come to this area, be sure to stop on the way to this beautiful garden site. There are gorgeous topiary forms, a mile-long nature walk, and an indigenous butterfly house.
Lade Topiary Garden: A Unique Tourist Destination
Lade Topiary Garden is not only a site for a garden but also a place providing tourists with unique amalgamations of art, culture, and nature. Here, the designs and structures represent a beautiful concoction of life and hard work, attracting not only gardening lovers but also art and history enthusiasts.
Conclusion
A visit to Martha’s Lade Topiary Garden would inspire gardening lovers and perpetuate the lasting tradition that Harvey Lade created for himself. Visiting this garden site will make one feel the beauty of nature and how the combination of gardening and art can grant a new perspective on life.
FAQs
Q1. Where did Martha visit the topiary garden?
A. Martha visited one of the most well-known topiary gardens in the United States, known for its artistic plant sculptures.
Q2. Why is this topiary garden considered one of the best?
A. This garden is famous for its intricate plant designs, historic charm, and national recognition in horticultural circles.
Q3. What is a topiary garden?
A. A topiary garden features shrubs and trees trimmed into artistic shapes, including animals, geometric forms, and creative figures.
Q4. Are there photos from Martha’s topiary garden visit?
A. Yes, stunning photos from her visit are available in the blog post, showcasing the garden’s beauty and detailed work.
Q5. Can the public visit this topiary garden?
A. Yes, the garden is open to the public and offers seasonal tours, special events, and photography opportunities.